Introduction
This delightful cheese ravioli dish is a perfect balance of flavors, combining the richness of butter, the aroma of garlic, the crispiness of sage, and the nuttiness of toasted pecans. It’s a simple yet elegant recipe, ideal for a cozy dinner or a special occasion. Let’s dive into the details of this delicious meal!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 pound cheese ravioli
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed
2 cloves garlic, minced
12 fresh sage leaves
1/4 cup chopped pecans
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor, making it a fantastic choice for both weeknight dinners and entertaining guests. Enjoy your cheesy and nutty ravioli creation!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Water
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. The salt enhances the flavor of the ravioli during cooking.
Step 2: Cook the Ravioli
Add the ravioli to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain the ravioli well, ensuring no excess water remains.
Step 3: Melt the Butter
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
Step 4: Add Garlic and Sage
Add the minced garlic and fresh sage leaves to the melted butter. Cook, stirring frequently, until the butter begins to brown and the sage leaves become crispy, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 5: Toast the Pecans
Stir in the chopped pecans and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until they are toasted. The pecans should become fragrant and slightly darker in color. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step 6: Combine Ravioli and Sauce
Add the cooked ravioli to the skillet and gently toss to combine, ensuring the ravioli is well coated with the sage and butter sauce.
Step 7: Serve
Serve the ravioli immediately, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. This adds a nice flavor and complements the dish beautifully.
Notes
Tip for Cooking Ravioli
Ensure the water is boiling before adding the ravioli, which helps prevent them from sticking together.
Butter Browning Warning
Watch the butter closely while it melts to avoid burning, as you want a brown color but not a burnt taste.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Storage Recommendation
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Cook techniques
Boiling Ravioli
To ensure the ravioli is cooked properly, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. This helps in cooking the pasta evenly and prevents it from becoming too sticky. Follow the package instructions for the recommended cooking time.
Brown Butter Technique
Melt unsalted butter over medium heat and keep an eye on it as it melts. Watch for the color change to a golden brown, which indicates that the milk solids are toasting, adding depth of flavor to your dish.
Infusing Garlic and Sage
Add minced garlic and fresh sage leaves to the browned butter. Cook until fragrant and the sage becomes crispy, which can take about 3-4 minutes. This process enhances the overall flavor of your sauce.
Toasting Pecans
Add chopped pecans to the skillet in the last few minutes of cooking to toast them lightly. This adds a crunch and complements the nutty flavor of the brown butter.
Tossing Ravioli
When adding cooked ravioli to the skillet, gently toss to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. This helps incorporate all flavors without breaking the delicate ravioli.
Serving with Cheese
Finish the dish by garnishing with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. It adds richness and a salty kick, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
FAQ
Can I use frozen ravioli for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen ravioli. Just increase the boiling time slightly according to the package instructions.
What can I substitute for sage?
If you don’t have sage, you can use fresh thyme or basil, but keep in mind that the flavor profile will change.
How do I store leftover ravioli?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, this dish is vegetarian as it uses cheese ravioli and does not contain any meat. Ensure the cheese used in ravioli is not made with animal rennet if strict vegetarianism is a concern.
What type of cheese ravioli do you recommend?
You can use any type of cheese ravioli, such as ricotta, mozzarella, or a mix of cheeses, based on your preference.
Conclusion
This delicious cheese ravioli dish, enhanced by the rich flavors of brown butter, garlic, crispy sage, and toasted pecans, is a perfect blend of savory and nutty tones. The addition of freshly grated Parmesan cheese elevates the dish, making it a standout meal that is both simple to prepare and satisfying.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Butternut Squash Ravioli with Sage Brown Butter
Replace cheese ravioli with butternut squash ravioli and follow the same sauce preparation for a seasonal twist.
Spinach and Ricotta Ravioli with Lemon Butter Sauce
Use spinach and ricotta ravioli and incorporate a splash of lemon juice into the brown butter for a bright, zesty flavor.
Mushroom Ravioli with Thyme and Walnut Sauce
Substitute cheese ravioli with mushroom ravioli and add fresh thyme to the butter sauce, served with chopped walnuts for crunch.
Pesto Ravioli with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Mix pesto into the butter sauce and toss with cheese ravioli and sun-dried tomatoes for a vibrant, Italian-inspired dish.
Ravioli Alfredo with Grilled Chicken
Switch to a creamy Alfredo sauce by combining the butter with heavy cream and add grilled chicken slices to make it a hearty meal.
